Aquascaping & Care Guide

Your quick-start guide to a thriving aquarium

New to the hobby or leveling up your aquascape? Here are the fundamentals we come back to again and again.

1. Cycle your tank first

Before adding fish, let your tank establish beneficial bacteria (the nitrogen cycle). This usually takes 2–6 weeks. Patience here prevents most beginner heartbreak.

2. Plant smart

Foreground carpets like Mini Dwarf Hair Grass, midground accents, and tall background plants like Jungle Val create natural depth. Plant heavily from day one — it outcompetes algae and looks fuller, faster.

3. Light & CO2

Most low-tech plants thrive on 6–8 hours of light a day. If you're chasing lush, fast growth, consider adding CO2 — but start modest to avoid algae.

4. Keep the water stable

Weekly 20–30% water changes keep parameters steady and fish happy. A gentle diffuser or syphon guard makes maintenance easier and safer for shrimp and fry.

5. Enrich for your livestock

Bettas love a place to rest near the surface; bottom dwellers and shrimp want caves and shelters to feel secure. Small touches go a long way for healthy, confident fish.

Need a hand planning a build? Reach out — we love talking tanks.